- Mourners have been warned against wearing political party regalia.
- Tight security has been put in place to ensure a peaceful burial.
- President William Ruto is expected to attend the burial.
- Chebukati’s family has urged Kenyans to allow them to mourn in peace.
Mourners attending the burial of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairman Wafula Chebukati have been cautioned against turning the event into a political gathering. Trans Nzoia County Commissioner Gideon Oyagi has warned that political party regalia will not be allowed during the funeral.
“This is not a political event but a burial. We will not allow any group to cheer their leaders during the event,” Oyagi stated on Thursday, March 6, during a press briefing.
He assured mourners that security has been heightened to maintain order, adding that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth farewell for the late Chebukati.
Burial Plans
Chebukati’s body arrived in Trans Nzoia County from Nairobi on Thursday, March 6, aboard a local carrier that landed at Kitale Airstrip. The cortege was received by his family and leaders, including Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi, before proceeding to his father’s home in Kambi Nairobi, Kapomboi Ward, for an overnight stay.
On Friday, the body will be moved to his Sabata home in Kiminini, where it will lie overnight ahead of the burial on Saturday, March 8.
Political Tensions and Security Concerns
The County Commissioner emphasized that no political slogans or mobilization would be tolerated, urging leaders to advise their supporters accordingly.
“Let us all exercise maximum restraint from any form of incitement, either through social media or any other means,” Oyagi stated.
His remarks follow claims by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya that certain politicians were mobilizing people to disrupt the funeral. He urged security agencies to act swiftly to prevent any chaos.
Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi also echoed the call for calm, urging mourners to respect the solemnity of the occasion.
“He was a person who worked tirelessly for Kenya. Let us all show respect and sympathy for his family,” he said.
Family Appeals for Respect
Chebukati’s family has urged Kenyans to stop negative commentary and allow them to mourn in peace.
“It is painful for us as a family that we have lost him, and I wish to tell Kenyans that the person they are crucifying is innocent,” his brother, Daniel Chebukati, stated.
His widow, Mary Chebukati, expressed gratitude to the government for its support and pleaded for a respectful burial.
“My husband led a quiet, respectful life, and we will be happy if we bury him in peace and respect,” she said.
Wafula Chebukati, who completed his six-year tenure as IEBC chairman on January 17, 2023, passed away on February 21 at the age of 63.
